Eyelid Surgery Aftercare
The guidance below provides a general overview of what most patients can expect after eyelid surgery. It is intended as a helpful reference, but recovery varies from person to person. Some patients heal more quickly than others, so always follow the specific advice provided by your surgeon.
Before you leave the hospital
MEDICATIONS
You will be provided with painkillers and an antibiotic ointment to apply to your eyes.
CHANGE OF DRESSINGS
Your dressings do not usually require changing before discharge.
FOLLOW-UP APPOINTMENTS FOR DRESSING CLINICS
You will be handed a card with details of your first follow up appointment and contact details for the ward should you have any concerns once you get home.
Eyelid Surgery Instructions
- Arrange for someone to drive you home after your surgery.
- Get plenty of rest during the first few days.
- Begin gentle walking as soon as you feel able to help reduce swelling and lower the risk of blood clots. Avoid overexertion.
- Follow a balanced diet. Reduced activity can cause constipation, so consider increasing your intake of fresh fruit and fibre. Drink plenty of fluids.
- Take pain medication exactly as prescribed. Avoid aspirin or products containing aspirin unless approved by your surgeon.
- Avoid smoking for at least two weeks, as it delays healing and increases the risk of complications.
- Avoid alcohol while taking pain medication. Even afterward, it is best to avoid alcohol for around three weeks, as it can contribute to fluid retention and increase swelling.
When can I go back to work after eyelid surgery?
Wound Care
You may be provided with an antibiotic eye ointment (such as chloramphenicol). Apply a small amount to your lashes and into the eyes 2–3 times a day for the first 1–2 days.
When washing your face, use a mild cleanser and avoid rubbing the eyelids. Keep the area clean and dry, and be gentle around the incision sites.
Avoid makeup or cosmetic products on the incisions until the wounds have fully healed, which is usually by two weeks.
Cold compresses may be used around the eyes to help reduce bruising and swelling during the early stages of recovery.
Activities after eyelid surgery?
Avoid strenuous activity or anything that raises your blood pressure for about two weeks, as this can increase swelling or risk of bleeding.
Do not drive for at least three days after surgery. Swelling and any pain medication may impair your ability to drive safely.
Sleep with your head supported on two or three pillows to help reduce swelling. You do not need to stay fully upright.
Avoid contact lenses for as long as possible to prevent irritation or pulling on the eyelids. Most people can resume wearing them after about three weeks, though those with dryness or irritation should wait longer.
You may shower at any time after your surgery. Take care to avoid rubbing the eyelids.
Wear loose, easy-to-remove clothing. Avoid tight tops that pull over your head, as they may catch on the eyes.
You can wear your glasses immediately following surgery.
Follow-up
4–6 Days After Surgery: You will attend a nurse clinic to have your stitches and any tape removed, and to check early healing.
6 Months: You will arrange a follow-up appointment with your surgeon to review your results and discuss any ongoing concerns.
Please Note: Many patients contact us before their 6-month visit. We can often address concerns by phone or email. If preferred, you may book an in-person review at any time without additional cost.
When to Call
- Swelling or bruising that is worsening or not improving.
- New swelling in one or both legs, or shortness of breath, which may indicate a blood clot.
- Increasing redness around the incision area.
- Severe or worsening pain not relieved by prescribed medication.
- Side effects from medication such as rash, nausea, headache, or vomiting.
- A temperature above 38°C.
- Yellow or green discharge from the incisions.
- Bleeding from the incision sites that does not settle with light pressure.
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